Financial Crime World

Financial Crime Prosecution in Central African Republic Hinges on International Support

The Central African Republic (CAR) has been plagued by financial crimes and human rights abuses for over two decades, leaving a trail of destruction and suffering in its wake. Despite the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) decision not to pursue new investigations in the country, the Special Criminal Court (SCC) is now the primary avenue for justice.

The Role of the Special Criminal Court

Established in 2015 by the CAR government and the United Nations, the SCC is a hybrid court staffed by both domestic and international personnel. Despite its potential to deliver justice, the court faces significant challenges, including:

  • Inadequate financial support
  • Lack of political backing from the CAR government and security forces
  • Difficulty in executing arrest warrants due to lack of cooperation with the ICC

The Need for International Support

Strengthening cooperation between the SCC and ICC is crucial to ensure that the gap left by the ICC is filled. The ICC must provide:

  • Information and technical expertise to help the SCC with its investigations
  • Best practices in witness protection and evidence gathering

Additionally, the international community must provide greater support to the SCC as it strives to deliver justice in CAR.

Achievements and Potential

Despite these challenges, the SCC has shown potential to deliver justice, having already convicted three individuals for war crimes and crimes against humanity. With adequate support, the court could complete six trials in the next two years.

The Role of Reparations

The court’s ability to order reparations for victims is also crucial, but its capacity to do so remains uncertain. The Trust Fund for Victims may still play a role in providing reparations for victims of crimes completed by the SCC.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the SCC has the potential to deliver justice in CAR, but it requires adequate support from the international community and strong political backing from the CAR government. The court’s ability to order reparations for victims is also crucial to ensure that justice is complete.